LVCI attendees got a warm welcome from Chris Meyer, CEM, CMP, vice president of global business sales for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority.

Michael Luther, vice president of hotel sales for the Westgate Resort, takes the stage.

David Siegel, founder and CEO of Westgate Resorts, welcomes guests to the property and shares the hotel's philosophy of excellent service.

Kellie Hanley—president of AWG Destination Services and FabLab Event Laboratory of Las Vegas—kicked off the panel with a review of the essential elements of inspiration, innovation, integration, and immersion.

Hanley also presented stunning examples of tech innovations such as projection mapping and LED photo activations.

Hanley also stressed the importance of using innovative entertainers who engage the audience with dazzling performances.

Gregg Herning, vice president of hotel sales at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, shared the astonishing impact of the "wellness" trend, a $2 trillion industry that is shaping the hotel experience. He also outlined MGM's "Stay Well" initiative, which covers scores of touch points—from food to air quality to ergonomic furniture—affecting the guest experience.

Herning also urged attendees to consider alternative spaces for events, going beyond the ballroom.

Among those taking in the presentations was Marvin Dickerson of the 100 Black Men of America.

Patti Shock, CPCE, CHT, professor emeritus at UNVL, shares fun food trends, from edible centerpieces to snow cone stations to apple tastings.

Shock entertained both the audience and the panel with her take on the emerging role of marijuana—like it or not—at events and meetings.

Attendees take images of Shock's presentation—including the "weed at weddings" shot.

Lisa Hurley of Special Events shared hot trends from The Special Event 2016, including incorporating technology, the importance of guest interaction, and making the brand the "hero" of the event.